Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, satisfying dish that bursts with flavor and crunch, this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender, juicy chicken with the crisp freshness of shredded cabbage and carrots, all tossed in a savory, slightly tangy sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or sharing a meal with friends, this recipe shines with simplicity and taste, making it a fast favorite you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that brings this dish to life.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 4 cups green cabbage: Shredded for that satisfying crunch and vibrant green hue.
- 1 medium carrot: Julienned to add a pop of natural sweetness and bright color.
- 3 green onions: Chopped to deliver a mild onion flavor and a fresh finish.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with that essential aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Minced for a warm, zesty undertone that wakes up your taste buds.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: The salty backbone bringing rich umami notes.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a gentle tang that brightens the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Combined with water to thicken the sauce perfectly.
- ¼ cup water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and balances the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For a high-heat stir-fry that keeps everything crisp yet tender.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Drizzled at the end for that irresistible nutty aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and enhance every single ingredient.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by whisking together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl until completely combined. This easy sauce blend will coat your stir-fry with a glossy, flavorful finish that brings the entire dish together.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season the thinly sliced chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken and stir-fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s cooked through and deliciously tender. Once it’s done, remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Quickly stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and green onions for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry these veggies for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re just tender but still have a nice crunch that adds to the texture of the dish.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats every bite, making the flavors sing in harmony. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil right before serving to add a rich, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish is delightful on its own, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped fresh cilantro can elevate the experience by adding a touch of crunch and freshness that complements the warm, savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy white rice, or even noodles for a heartier meal. For a low-carb twist, cauliflower rice is an excellent, nutritious option that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stir-fry wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves for a fun, hands-on meal that adds a crisp coolness contrast. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens to incorporate even more texture and healthy goodness into your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cabbage may soften slightly but still retains much of its crunch and flavor.
Freezing
This stir-fry freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that texture might change a bit upon thawing, especially with the cabbage.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the vegetables soggy and less vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Napa cabbage is a fantastic substitute that offers a slightly sweeter and more delicate texture, making it a great alternative in this Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe.
Is this dish spicy, and can I adjust the heat?
This recipe is naturally mild, but you can easily add spice by including red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making your stir-fry even more delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This stir-fry holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for preparing meals ahead of time.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or allergy-friendly substitute, mushroom sauce or a little extra soy sauce mixed with a touch of sugar can mimic the sweet-savory depth oyster sauce provides.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is such a delightful way to bring vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients to your table without fuss. Its comforting yet bright profile makes it perfect for any day of the week. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a go-to favorite. So grab those simple ingredients and let the joyful process of cooking this tasty stir-fry brighten your kitchen and your plate!
Print
Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breast, crisp green cabbage, and fresh vegetables tossed in a savory soy-oyster sauce. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, the stir-fry is packed with protein, vitamins, and a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. Set this mixture aside; it will be used later to coat the stir-fry with a glossy finish.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Lightly season the thinly sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh ginger, and chopped green onions. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, which enhances the flavor base of the dish.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the shredded green cabbage and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still retain a slight crunch, maintaining their vibrant texture and nutrients.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Final Touch: Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry for an extra layer of nutty flavor. Give it one last toss, then remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice if you prefer a low-carb option.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
- Napa cabbage can be used as a substitute for green cabbage for a milder flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
